PREVIOUS CONNECTIONS DEFINITIONS
Plain-English meanings for all 16 words from the September 6, 2026 NYT Connections puzzle. No hints, categories or answers.
A numerical result representing a student's performance on the SAT college admissions test.
A score used by colleges to evaluate applicants' readiness for college-level work.
A standardized measure combining results from multiple sections of the SAT exam.
The term is primarily used in the context of U.S. college admissions testing.
A UPC code is a unique barcode used to identify products in retail stores for inventory and sales tracking.
A UPC code can refer to the numerical digits printed below the barcode.
Sometimes, UPC code is used to describe the system or standard for product barcoding.
In some contexts, UPC code may refer to the physical label containing the barcode on a product.
UPC code is commonly used in retail and logistics but can also appear in discussions about product identification and scanning technology.
A physical interface on a computer or device that allows connection of USB-compatible peripherals for data transfer and power supply.
A socket on electronic devices used specifically for charging via USB cables.
A type of port used to connect external storage devices like flash drives or external hard drives.
An interface on some devices for connecting USB hubs to expand the number of available USB connections.
USB port commonly refers to a hardware interface but can also be used in product names or technical descriptions.
A device that allows bank customers to perform financial transactions, such as withdrawing cash or checking account balances, using a card and PIN.
A redundant phrase combining 'ATM' (Automated Teller Machine) with 'machine', effectively meaning the same as 'ATM'.
Informally used to emphasize the physical machine dispensing cash.
Sometimes used humorously or mistakenly in speech or writing.
The term 'ATM machine' is redundant because 'ATM' already stands for 'Automated Teller Machine.'
A narrow opening in a device designed to accept and hold a card, such as a memory card or credit card.
A designated place on a printed circuit board for inserting expansion cards.
A feature on gaming machines where players insert cards to play or access services.
The term can refer to physical hardware components or specific features in electronic devices and machines.
A check that has been signed but does not have a specified amount, allowing the recipient to fill in any amount.
An unlimited or unrestricted authorization to spend money or resources.
A metaphor for giving someone complete freedom to act or make decisions without limitations.
The term can be used literally in banking or figuratively in everyday language.
A person employed in a court of law to record the proceedings and maintain official documents.
An ancient official who wrote down royal decrees and legal matters.
A clerk responsible for transcribing court hearings and testimonies.
The term can refer to historical or modern roles and may appear in legal or historical contexts.
A numeric code used to authenticate a user's identity, typically for accessing bank accounts or secure devices.
A redundant phrase combining 'PIN' (Personal Identification Number) and 'number'.
An informal term sometimes used to emphasize the numeric nature of a PIN.
The term 'PIN number' is often considered redundant since 'PIN' already includes 'number.'
A version of a film or video that reflects the director's original vision, often including scenes not shown in the theatrical release.
An extended or alternate version of a movie released after the original.
A special edition of a video game or software with additional content or features.
A term used metaphorically to describe a personal or preferred version of any creative work.
The term is primarily used in film and media contexts but can also appear in other creative fields.
A device in a computer that reads and writes data from optical discs like CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs using laser technology.
A component used in some gaming consoles to read game discs.
A hardware device in audio equipment that plays or records optical media.
The term primarily refers to computer hardware but can also be used in other electronic devices that use optical discs.
Complete freedom to act as one wishes or thinks best.
A blank document or form to be filled in as desired.
A French term meaning 'white card' used historically to refer to a letter of authorization.
Often used in formal contexts to indicate full discretionary power.
A socket on electronic devices where headphones are plugged in to listen to audio privately.
A connector on audio equipment for outputting sound to headphones.
A port used to connect external audio devices via a compatible plug.
The term can refer to various sizes and types of audio connectors, commonly 3.5mm or 1/4 inch.
Complete freedom to act or make decisions without restrictions.
A common misspelling of 'free rein,' which means the same as above.
Used metaphorically to describe unlimited control or authority.
Sometimes mistakenly used to mean a type of royal rule.
Often confused with 'free rein,' which is the correct phrase; 'free reign' is a common error.
A single triangular piece cut from a whole pizza, typically including crust, sauce, cheese, and toppings.
A casual term for a portion of any similarly shaped food item.
Slang for a small share or part of something.
A nickname for a specific style of pizza slice, such as New York-style.
The term is commonly used in food contexts but can also appear in slang or informal speech.
A screen technology that uses liquid crystals to display images by controlling light passage.
A flat-panel display commonly used in monitors, TVs, and digital devices.
An electronic display that consumes less power than traditional CRT screens.
A type of display that requires a backlight to produce visible images.
The term is commonly used in electronics and can refer to various sizes and types of liquid crystal displays.
Complete power or control to make decisions and take actions without needing approval from others.
A status in aviation where a pilot has permission to operate an aircraft without supervision.
In business, the ability to manage all aspects of a project or operation independently.
Legal permission granted to act on someone else's behalf with no restrictions.
The term can be used in legal, business, aviation, and general contexts to indicate unrestricted decision-making power.